Mayor Julie Hoy on Wednesday conceded to challenger Vanessa Nordyke, after election results showed the Salem city councilor maintaining a commanding lead in Tuesday’s election.
As of Wednesday morning, Nordyke was leading Hoy 56% to 44%. Nordyke had 13,541 votes to Hoy’s 10,555 with several thousand ballots remaining to be counted in Marion and Polk counties.
Hoy is in her first term as mayor.
Nordyke learned of the concession when contacted by Salem Reporter. She said she hadn’t had any post-election contact with Hoy.
Here is her complete statement:
“Yesterday’s results were not what we had hoped for, but I am deeply grateful to everyone who supported this campaign, believed in our vision for Salem, volunteered their time, shared conversations, knocked doors, made calls and showed up for our community over these many months.
Serving as your Mayor has been one of the greatest honors of my life. Together, we have helped move Salem forward — stabilizing the city’s finances, strengthening public safety, improving coordination around homelessness and outreach, supporting local businesses, and restoring focus on the core services residents rely on every day. That work matters, and I am proud of what we accomplished together.
While this election did not end the way we wanted, my commitment to Salem remains unchanged. I will continue working hard through the end of my term to serve this city with integrity, focus and care for the people who call Salem home.
I also believe yesterday’s results carry an important reminder. Turnout in this election was very low, and our communities are profoundly shaped by who chooses to participate. Whether in elections, neighborhood meetings, volunteer efforts, local organizations, or simply checking in on one another, showing up matters. It always matters.
Democracy and community are not things we inherit passively. They are built by people willing to engage, listen, participate and stay involved, even when it is difficult or disappointing.
So while I am certainly saddened by the outcome, I remain hopeful about Salem’s future. I encourage everyone who cares about this city to continue showing up, speaking up, and investing in the community we all share.
Thank you, Salem. It is a privilege to serve you.”
Contact reporter Abbey McDonald: [email protected] or 503-575-1251.
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Abbey McDonald joined the Salem Reporter in 2022. She previously worked as the business reporter at The Astorian, where she covered labor issues, health care and social services. A University of Oregon grad, she has also reported for the Malheur Enterprise, The News-Review and Willamette Week.
